The Cincinnati Reds made an unanticipated move ahead of their latest stretch of games, reshuffling their outfield unit at a moment that coincides with the team’s recent upswing in performance. As momentum continues to build, the organization opted to tweak the roster in an effort to maintain balance and competitive rhythm.
Austin Hays has been activated from the 10-day injured list after spending nearly a month recovering from a bone bruise in his foot. The injury occurred on May 28, when Hays fouled a ball off his foot during a game against the Kansas City Royals. After leaving that contest in the eighth inning, he was placed on the IL and required extended time away due to persistent discomfort, particularly when making lateral movements.
Following a brief but productive rehab assignment with the Double-A Chattanooga Lookouts—where he recorded hits in both appearances and showed no lingering issues—Hays has rejoined the big-league club. He featured once as a designated hitter and once in left field, even drawing a walk during his first game back.
His return is timely, as the right-handed slugger has been a significant offensive contributor when healthy, boasting a strong .303/.346/.555 slash line with 15 extra-base hits and 25 RBIs across 31 games this season.
To clear space on the active roster, the Reds have placed Jake Fraley on the 10-day injured list due to a right shoulder sprain. Fraley, who had only recently returned from a calf injury that sidelined him for much of May, had been performing solidly at the plate since his return on May 30, hitting .255/.352/.404 over 54 plate appearances.
This sudden switch—removing one outfielder while reinstating another—reflects Cincinnati’s ongoing efforts to stabilize its roster during a critical midseason stretch. As the team looks to maintain its competitive edge, such calculated roster adjustments could prove essential in sustaining the Reds’ recent resurgence.
